Vivienne Westwood’s rebellious style takes centre stage at Walker Art Gallery in striking new fashion display

Vivienne Westwood: Designer in Focus opens on Friday 18 April 2025 and brings together a bold and eclectic mix of the designer’s most iconic pieces.

From the punk scene of the 1970s to the red carpets of fashion weeks around the world, Vivienne Westwood’s impact on style, culture and politics has been nothing short of revolutionary. Now, a new display at Walker Art Gallery is shining a spotlight on her game-changing legacy.

Vivienne Westwood: Designer in Focus opens on Friday 18 April 2025 and brings together a bold and eclectic mix of the designer’s most iconic pieces. Spanning over five decades of work, the display traces Westwood’s journey from her early days shaking up the fashion establishment to becoming one of the most celebrated names in British design.

Housed in the gallery’s Craft & Design space, the collection includes standout pieces from her most influential collections – from her punk-era collaborations with Malcolm McLaren, right through to later looks inspired by historical dress, politics and classic British tailoring.

Each piece tells a story about Westwood’s fearless creativity, her sharp social commentary, and her refusal to follow the rules. From 18th century French influences to nods to Native American design, the display shows how Westwood’s designs have always been about more than just clothes—they’re wearable art.

Pauline Rushton, Head of Decorative Arts at National Museums Liverpool, said:

“Vivienne Westwood was so much more than a fashion designer. She was a cultural force, an artist and a trailblazer. This display is a chance to explore how her work pushed boundaries and redefined what fashion could say and do.

“We’re proud to include many pieces from our own collection alongside important loans, highlighting Liverpool’s connection to Westwood’s work and her influence here in the city.”

Vivienne Westwood: Designer in Focus is open from Friday 18 April 2025 until October 2026 at the Walker Art Gallery. Entry is free and donations are welcome to support future exhibitions and events.

For more info, head to their website.

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